Uyuni Salt Flats Tour by Bicycle

Explore the Salar de Uyuni in a unique and exciting way: by bike! This full-day tour combines the classic tourist attractions of the salt flats with the freedom and adrenaline rush of riding across sections of the white desert on two wheels. Ideal for active travelers seeking a different, immersive, and environmentally conscious experience.

During the tour, you’ll visit sites such as the train cemetery, the town of Colchani, the salt vents, the Dakar Rally monument, the salt hotel, Incahuasi Island, and witness an unforgettable sunset over the salt flats while pedaling through a landscape unlike any other in the world.

What’s Included in the Tour?

Pick-up from your hotel in Uyuni

Our service begins with a prompt pick-up from your accommodation or meeting point in downtown Uyuni, so you can start your experience comfortably and worry-free.

Transportation in a 4×4 vehicle

You’ll travel in all-terrain vehicles, ideal for exploring the salt flats and nearby roads. The group will be small, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

Mountain bikes in perfect condition

You’ll be provided with a high-quality mountain bike, suitable for exploring the extreme landscapes of the salt flats. The bikes are in excellent condition to guarantee your safety and comfort.

Safety accessories (helmet, gloves, knee pads, elbow pads)

For your protection, we’ll provide you with all the necessary accessories to complete the tour safely, including a helmet, gloves, knee pads, and elbow pads.

Local Spanish-speaking guide/driver

A local guide with extensive experience in the area will accompany you throughout the tour, explaining the geography, history, and interesting facts about the Salar de Uyuni, while ensuring a pleasant and safe experience.

Lunch in the middle of the salt flats

Amidst this surreal landscape, you will enjoy a typical Bolivian lunch, ideal for recharging your energy. The food is fresh, balanced, and designed to meet the demands of the tour.

First-aid kit

All vehicles are equipped with a basic first-aid kit for minor emergencies, ensuring your well-being during the tour.

Return to your hotel or the Uyuni bus terminal

At the end of the tour, you will be transported back to your hotel or the Uyuni bus terminal to continue your journey or rest after a day of adventure.

What’s not included?

Entrance to Incahuasi Island

Entrance to this island, famous for its enormous cacti and panoramic views of the salt flats, has an additional cost of Bs. 30 per person, payable directly on site.

English-speaking guide (optional, additional cost)

The tour is conducted in Spanish, but if you prefer an English-speaking guide, you can request one for an additional cost, subject to availability.

Buses or flights to Uyuni

The tour does not include transportation tickets to Uyuni from other cities. You can travel to Uyuni by bus or plane on your own and arrange for pickup from the bus terminal or airport.

Personal drinks or snacks

The tour includes lunch, but not additional drinks or snacks. It is recommended that you bring your own water or snacks if you wish.

Personal insurance

Medical and travel insurance are not included. It is recommended that you purchase insurance that covers emergencies, especially for activities at high altitudes or on uneven terrain.

Tips (optional)

Tips are not included in the tour price, but are welcome as a thank you for the guide and driver’s service.

Recommendations

Wear comfortable thermal clothing for cycling: The climate on the Altiplano can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, so it’s important to wear thermal clothing. Also, make sure it’s comfortable and flexible so you can move easily while cycling.

Wear athletic shoes or hiking boots: The route involves sections of uneven terrain and the salt flats, so it’s necessary to wear comfortable and durable athletic shoes or hiking boots.

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm: Solar radiation is intense on the Altiplano, so protect your eyes with quality sunglasses, and your skin with sunscreen and lip balm to avoid sunburn from the sun’s reflection on the salt flats.

Small backpack with water, camera, and snacks: Bring a small backpack with the essentials: water to stay hydrated, your camera to capture unique moments, and light snacks (like energy bars) to replenish your energy during the ride.

Brightly colored clothing for perspective photos: To get the best photos on the salt flats, wear brightly colored clothing such as red, blue, or yellow. This will help the photos stand out and take full advantage of the salt flats’ mirror effect.

Passport or ID: Be sure to bring your passport or ID for check-in at accommodations and checkpoints.

Cash in Bolivianos for personal expenses: Although the tour includes meals, it is recommended to bring cash for additional personal expenses, such as entrance fees to tourist sites or souvenir purchases.

Avoid alcoholic beverages the night before: Due to the altitude and conditions of the Altiplano, it is important to avoid consuming alcohol the night before the tour to prevent altitude sickness and ensure a better experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to be an expert cyclist to do the tour?

No. The cycling sections are flat and can be adapted to the group’s pace. It’s ideal for anyone with a basic level of fitness.

How much cycling is involved in total?

There are three periods of free cycling, totaling approximately 1 to 2 hours of cycling, divided between guided visits.

Can I take perspective photos?

Yes. During the free cycling sections, and especially on the central plateau of the salt flats, there is dedicated time for creative photography.

Is the tour available year-round?

Yes, although during the rainy season (January to March), some routes may be modified if the salt flats are flooded.

Is it available as a private tour?

Yes. The tour is available as a group tour or private tour with daily departures (minimum 2 people).